Cattle markets spring to life amid soaring prices

Vendors struggle with heat, inflation; families flock to choose sacrificial animals

LAHORE:

With Eidul Azha approaching, cattle markets across the metropolis have come alive with the hustle and bustle of buyers and sellers, but this year's skyrocketing prices have left citizens stunned.

From the outskirts to the heart of the city, several makeshift livestock markets have been set up where people, including children, are eagerly heading to select their preferred sacrificial animals. However, prices for both small and large animals have surged drastically, making it difficult for many to afford this religious obligation.

At the markets, the starting price of a bull is reported to be around Rs350,000, calves range between Rs200,000 to Rs250,000, and camels are being sold for Rs400,000 to Rs800,000.

The steep rise in prices, driven by inflation and supply costs, has left both sellers and buyers anxious.

To attract buyers, vendors have gone to great lengths to groom and decorate the animals. Protective measures against the summer heat are also in place as sellers are seen cooling their livestock with cold water baths and offering them traditional desi drinks.

Makeshift shades have been erected to shelter the animals from the harsh sun.

Meanwhile, the prices of fodder have also soared. Dry fodder such as bhoosa and toori is being sold for Rs800 to Rs850 per 40kg, while chopped green fodder costs Rs600 per 40kg, and unchopped green fodder is priced at Rs400 per 40kg.

At Manawan Mandi, traders have arranged for their own electricity via generators and installed borewells for the animals' drinking water. However, no government-provided facilities like water filtration units or cooling systems for visitors have been set up.

A complaints cell has been established, but many citizens remain concerned about the lack of basic amenities. Despite the challenges, the buying and selling of sacrificial animals continues in full swing.